Leslie Ballanfonte

Jo Leslie Ballanfonte was born on March 1, 1960 and went to be with the Lord on March 16, 2021. Leslie was a native Austinite. She attended Good Shepherd Preschool, Casis Elementary, O' Henry Junior High and was a third generation graduate of Stephen F. Austin High School. Along the way, she was a Camp Mystic camper. She graduated with a BBA from the University of Texas and was proud to be a Life Member of the University of Texas Ex-Students Association.

Leslie’s introduction to volunteering began in her preschool years when she and her sister accompanied their grandmother on her Saturday morning trips to Butter Krust Bakery to obtain bread donations for the Children's Home. Leslie referred to the bakery as "Kutter Brust". Thus, the pattern of volunteering began with many organizations including the 1886 Room, The Women's Art Guild of Laguna Gloria involved in Fiesta, The Arthritis Foundation, Mary Lee Foundation, March of Dimes, Women's Symphony League , Junior League of Austin. She was a member of the Junior Austin Woman's Club and Covenant Presbyterian Church.

Leslie was presented as both a Helping Hand Society and Bachelors of Austin Debutante.

She was preceded in death by her father, Joe Willcox Ballanfonte, her grandparents, E.W. Becker, Walita J. Becker and Joseph and Ralph Willcox Ballanfonte. She leaves behind her mother, Bertha Ann Ballanfonte and her sister, Laura Ann Ballanfonte as well as her beloved cat, Callie, and a host of friends.

Memorial contributions may be made to ASPCA, Junior League of Austin, Helping Hand Home for Children located at 3804 Avenue B, Austin, 78751 or a charity of your choice.

Private Services were held on April 14, 2021.